The planets are in transition this week, and so are we. Some of us
are steeped in preliminary work, setting the stage for what lies ahead,
but wishing for more time. Others of us are already hip-deep in
organizational details, unable to postpone action despite all
admonitions about Mercury Retrograde. Even more are feeling the
consternation of patience, waiting like a horse in the gate to simply
get started, but for one reason or another, the "race" keeps getting
postponed. Most transitions tend to be uncomfortable, and this one is
no different. The best way through is to gather your strength as best
you can, and also to know that by this time next week, you'll already
by in overdrive.

Mercury goes Direct late in the day on May 30, so don't expect a
strong forward push until Monday, June 1. While this retrograde hasn't
lasted that much longer than other Mercury Retrograde phases (they
usually last about three weeks), it does somehow seem longer. Maybe
it's the lengthening days as we approach summer, or maybe life just
feels stretched. Or perhaps this retrograde seems longer because during
the entire retrograde, Mercury has been so bloody busy — a
situation that continues even as the retrograde ends. This week,
Mercury squares the ongoing Jupiter/Neptune/Chiron conjunction, and
while this conjunction is generally idealistic, the square from Mercury
could have tongues wagging but words failing to convey any actual
meaning. Mercury also continues to sextile Uranus, a positive
interaction with the potential to keep minds actively engaged in
creative innovation, a condition that could prevent the
Jupiter/Neptune/Mercury proclivity toward gossip.

It's only the presence of Mercury that turns the
Jupiter/Neptune/Chiron conjunction toward chitchat. On its own, this
conjunction is all about an expansive idealism aimed at generous,
humanitarian endeavors. It's basically just what's needed, given our
current global circumstances, because this is the type of astral
configuration that supports positive efforts to make the world a better
place to live. Chiron's participation can skew the interpretation of
this conjunction along several storylines. First, Chiron indicates the
need to acknowledge and address the wounds of our collective greed.
Next, Chiron signals the need to shift out of the idea that we are
driven by animal appetites, which is the justification for the idea of
the survival of the fittest. Third, Chiron also indicates that it's
time to release personal and collective identification with your
wounding and move into an identification with our healing — and I
don't mean the Rapture. I'm talking about taking the very real
knowledge we have about what we need to do to make the world a better
place for all of its inhabitants and put it into motion. Chiron's
presence is about concretizing our ideals through action. The time for
talking about change is done.

As the week unfolds, Mars moves into a trine with Pluto, a
configuration that translates into extraordinary amounts of energy, and
another reason the astral transitions of the week are uncomfortable.
While it won't be easy waiting until the retrograde is over, be
patient, and by Monday, the shift will feel solid and smooth.

If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that,
too.

ARIES The good news is there is too much to do. The best news
is you can handle it. So rather than complain about the increased
workload, welcome it. Embrace this phase and you'll enhance your
success.

TAURUS Hiding in the shadows isn't an option, so rather than
waste your time and energy attempting the impossible, allow yourself to
shine. Yes, you'll receive a lot of attention, but you deserve the
recognition.

GEMINI It's still important to pay attention to the details.
And it is also important to rest. Make time to recuperate and you'll
replenish important and necessary reserves.

CANCER Positive interactions with significant others,
personal as well as professional, facilitate a shift not only in
attitude, but also in results. Do your best to unite your team and
you'll be pleased with the results.

LEO Be prepared to experience renewed enthusiasm about your
career, and also expect to feel reinvigorated about your prospects for
success. It will take a lot of hard work, but you are definitely
motivated to succeed.

VIRGO Continue to concentrate your efforts on the tasks at
hand, and despite what could be called "recent setbacks," you will make
steady progress. Believe in your capacity and capability, and others
will as well.

LIBRA Strengthen your internal center and you'll have a much
easier time establishing and maintaining your equilibrium. This is not
about a rigid stance; it's about taking the time to be with your
thoughts and desires.

SCORPIO Meaningful conversations with friends and partners,
personal or professional, will help you to clarify what you want, as
well as what you need. Listen with an open heart and speak with the
same integrity.

SAGITTARIUS Focus your efforts on work, and the financial
gains will follow. While I can't promise a miracle, there are
opportunities to find real and much-need solutions.

CAPRICORN You're riding a strong creative current that feels
powerful and comfortable, all at the same time. Enjoy this strength,
and put it to good use finding positive solutions to several
problematic situations.

AQUARIUS Spend your intensity creatively, and you'll feel
revitalized and renewed. Not every project will be a "hit" but you
won't care because the process will be completely satisfying.

PISCES Conversations with friends have the power to inspire a
new approach to issues of self-esteem. If you're willing to be honest
with yourself, you'll receive the necessary feedback to make lasting
changes.

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